With an anterior placenta, the placenta sits between your baby and the front of your bump, which can cushion movements and make them feel softer or later than expected.
What an anterior placenta is
An anterior placenta is one that's attached to the front wall of your womb, between your baby and the front of your bump (Tommy's, Count the Kicks).
How it changes what you feel
It may not be so easy to feel your baby's movements, because the placenta cushions the kicks (RCOG, Tommy's). It may take a little longer — in weeks — before you first feel your baby move (Count the Kicks). Count the Kicks says research shows movement counting times are similar to other placental positions from 24 weeks onwards.
Your own pattern still matters
Tommy's says you should still feel regular movement — what's usual for your baby will just be different from someone whose placenta is elsewhere. You're comparing your days with each other, not with anyone else.
Say so at your next appointment if you're finding movements hard to feel.
Never put reduced movements down to your placenta
Never assume that an anterior placenta is the reason you can't feel your baby move (Tommy's). If you think your baby is moving less, movements feel weaker, or they've stopped, contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. What to do.
Making movements easier to feel
Movements are easiest to feel when you're still. Count the Kicks suggests sitting or lying in a comfortable position and taking time to really focus on your baby's movements. Lying on your side, or sitting propped up with a hand on your bump, works well for most people. The best time to count has more.